Umbilical cord contain
A. Umbilicus
B. Allantonic artery & vein
C. Placenta
D. Discus proligerus
Correct Answer: B. Allantonic artery
Explanation
Question: Umbilical cord contains — Explain.
Explanation:
The umbilical cord is a vital structure that connects the fetus to the placenta and allows exchange of substances between the mother and the fetus. It contains the following components:
- Two umbilical arteries
- Carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta.
- They arise from the fetal internal iliac arteries.
- One umbilical vein
- Carries oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus.
- It enters the fetal circulation through the liver (via ductus venosus).
- Wharton’s jelly
- A gelatinous connective tissue surrounding the blood vessels.
- Protects the vessels from compression, kinking, and pressure.
- Covering of amnion
- The umbilical cord is externally covered by a layer of amnion.
- No nerves or lymphatics
- The umbilical cord does not contain sensory nerves, which is why cutting it is painless.
In short:
👉 The umbilical cord contains 2 arteries, 1 vein, Wharton’s jelly, and is covered by amnion—all essential for fetal circulation and protection.
Other Options Details
Here is a clear explanation of all the options related to fetal and reproductive anatomy:
A. Umbilicus
- The umbilicus is commonly known as the navel or belly button.
- It is the site on the fetal abdomen where the umbilical cord is attached.
- After birth, when the umbilical cord is cut and dries up, it leaves a scar called the umbilicus.
- It has no function after birth, but during fetal life it serves as the connection point for blood vessels in the umbilical cord.
B. Allantoic artery & vein
- The allantoic (umbilical) vessels are part of the fetal circulation.
- Normally, the umbilical cord contains:
- Two umbilical arteries (carry deoxygenated blood and waste from fetus to placenta)
- One umbilical vein (carries oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from placenta to fetus)
- These vessels develop from the allantois, an early embryonic structure.
- They play a vital role in exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between fetus and placenta.
C. Placenta
- The placenta is a temporary organ formed during pregnancy.
- It connects the fetus to the mother through the umbilical cord.
- Major functions include:
- Exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products
- Hormone production (hCG, progesterone, estrogen)
- Transfer of maternal antibodies (IgG) to the fetus
- It acts as a selective barrier, but not all substances are blocked.
D. Discus proligerus
- The discus proligerus is a structure found in the ovarian follicle, not related to the umbilical cord.
- It is a mound of follicular cells that surrounds and supports the developing ovum.
- It provides nourishment to the oocyte and plays a role in ovulation.
- It later contributes to the formation of the corona radiata.
Summary
- Umbilicus → Attachment site of umbilical cord
- Allantoic artery & vein → Fetal blood vessels for placental circulation
- Placenta → Organ of exchange and hormone production
- Discus proligerus → Ovarian follicle structure (not fetal circulation)
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group